Some Pro-America Songs to Get Your Patriotic Blood Pumping

Wednesday

Jul 3, 2013 at 5:34 PM

MATT REINSTETLEThe Ledger

Today we celebrate our Independence Day.

The way we actually celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence differs from person to person. It could be anything from a barbecue with friends and family, a trip to the beach or seeing fireworks explode in the sky.

No matter what you do, you're most likely going to be listening to music, so why not throw a few patriotic songs in the mix? This doesn't mean you need "The Star-Spangled Banner" added to your Top 40 mix.

Here is a list of pro-America music that should get your patriotic juices flowing.

'God Bless the U.S.A.,' Lee Greenwood (1984)

Country music artist Lee Greenwood wrote this patriotic anthem in the back of a tour bus in 1983. Now the song is remembered as one of the most patriotic songs outside of the "The Star-Spangled Banner." The song is bursting at the seams with patriotism summed up in the chorus, "And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me." It's a must for any patriotic music playlist.

'Courtesy of the Red White and Blue (The Angry American),' Toby Keith (2003)

Love or hate this song, Toby Keith summed up what a lot of Americans were feeling in the years after Sept. 11, 2001. Fueled by 9/11 and the passing of Keith's military veteran father, he wrote this song that became a hit as the U.S. began its war in Iraq. Known for the line ,"when you rattle his cage. And you'll be sorry that you messed with, the U.S. of A. 'Cause we'll put a boot in your -----. It's the American way." This song will get a few 'Murica chants going at your barbecue.

'America,' Neil Diamond (1981)

Singer Neil Diamond brought us this pop song highlighting America's immigration history of early America. It's a song that inspires hope of a start in the land of opportunity.

'Living In America,' James Brown (1985)

You gotta love the Godfather of Soul. James Brown saw instant success with "Living in America" winning Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 1986 Grammy Awards. This classic funk track is bound to put a smile on anyone's face, especially if they're a fan of "Rocky IV." The song was featured in the film as Apollo Creed entered the ring to fight Ivan Drago.

'In America,' Charlie Daniels (1980)

In the late 1970s, America wasn't doing too well. The Iranian hostage crisis was in full swing among other problems with the government. Then Charlie "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" Daniels wrote this up-tempo Southern rock song that went on to be a hit. The song's lyrics are about America overcoming its problems and standing together, especially in the lines, "This lady may have stumbled, but she ain't never fell. And if the Russians don't believe that, they can all go straight to hell."

'America, ----- Yeah,' | Trey Parker (2004)

If you want to break up the pro-America "rah-rah" music with a laugh, then this is the track to play. Written by "South Park" co-creator Trey Parker for his film "Team America: World Police," this song is a satirical take on over-the-top pro-America songs. Make sure to listen carefully when Parker sings a list of all things that make America great. Hint: Some things mentioned were not created in America. Since its release, the song has become popular with younger generations. If you're a "South Park" fan and don't have little kids around, then this profanity-laced anthem is right up your alley.

Matt Reinstetle can be reached at matt.reinstetle@theledger.com or 802-7533. Follow Matt on Twitter @LedgerMatt.